Why Companies Fail at Writing Job Descriptions

A well-written, accurate job description is a powerful recruitment tool. It clearly outlines the responsibilities, skills, and qualifications the ideal candidate should possess. It also highlights the unique values, culture, and growth opportunities that your company has to offer.

An effective job description benefits both job seekers and hiring managers. Qualified candidates know immediately if they are a good fit for the position, and they are confident and motivated to apply. When hiring managers receive resumes from a curated group of top talent, they don’t have to waste time sifting through hundreds of superfluous applications.

The problem is that many companies still do not invest enough time into writing quality job descriptions. Here are a few reasons why your company should be different – and stand out among the competition.

Time is precious.

Yes, it takes time to craft a detailed and informative job description. But this is an essential task – one that must be done, one way or another. It saves time and hassle in the long run if you tackle it early in the hiring process. An exceptional job description also shows potential applicants that you value their time and effort. They know exactly what you’re looking for, and they don’t have to spend time applying for a position they aren’t suited to.

Expectations must be evaluated.

Many job descriptions fall into a common trap: they demand unrealistic or unnecessary qualifications from candidates. When you sit down and define what you really need from this employee, you focus on what is essential, what would be nice to have, and what isn’t a priority. You force yourself to ask: what will make someone excel in this role? What skills and qualities are fundamental to doing this work? Hiring the right person is much easier when you know who you are looking for.

Once you find the perfect person to hire for the job, you already have a blueprint for their work. You have a bulleted list of their daily responsibilities, long-term goals, and metrics for success. This clarity is invaluable as you integrate a new employee into your company.